Rabid Bat Found in Pasadena Prompts Public Health Warning

Rabies in animals (File Photo – CDC)

A bat found near the intersection of S. Grand Ave. and Del Rosa Dr. in Pasadena has tested positive for rabies, according to the Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD).

By News Desk

No human rabies cases have been reported, and officials emphasize that the overall public risk remains low. Still, they are urging residents to use caution around bats and other wildlife.

First Rabid Bat Reported in Pasadena This Year

“This is the first bat to test positive for rabies in Pasadena this year,” said Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health. He urged community members to avoid touching bats and to report any that appear injured, ill, or dead.

Rabies is a rare but life‑threatening disease. Dr. Parveen Kaur, the city’s Health Officer, stressed that any contact between humans or pets and a rabid bat is a serious health concern. The virus can be transmitted through a bite or even a scratch from an infected animal. If skin contact occurs, officials advise washing the area immediately with soap and water and seeking medical care.

Safety Guidance for the Public

PPHD recommends the following steps to reduce the risk of rabies exposure:

• Never handle bats with bare hands
• Report injured, ill, or dead bats to local animal control or public health authorities
• Avoid all contact with bats and other wild animals

Residents who encounter a dead or dying bat should not touch it. Instead, they can contact Pasadena Humane at (626) 792‑7151 to collect the animal. Anyone who experiences an animal bite should speak with a medical provider promptly, and pet owners should contact an emergency veterinarian if their animals may have been exposed.

More information about rabies is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Rabies website.